Fascinating or Freaky? Animals From the Inside Out

For centuries, scientists have explored the internal systems of animals in an attempt to learn more about our origins and genetic relationships. Sketches pulled from Leonardo da Vinci's notebooks show very accurate skeletal and muscular anatomies of horses and men. Those served as the basis of his artwork as well as an outlet for his intellectual curiosity.

At London's Natural History Museum, a new exhibit called Animals Inside Out indulges mankind's fascination by displaying plastinated animals that use the same technology developed by Gunther von Hagens's for the popular Body Worlds exhibits. While fiendish at first glance, the displays showcase the intricate architecture of an amazing animal world.

Take a look at these images and then let us know: fascinating or freaky?